Instructions:

Cheese Strata

12 slices white bread, crusts trimmed
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
4 eggs
1 tablespoon dried minced onion
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon prepared mustard
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
2 1/2 cups milk

Grease 12 x 8-inch baking dish. Arrange 6 slices bread on bottom of dish. Sprinkle with cheese. Top with remaining bread slices.

In medium mixing bowl beat eggs, onion, salt, mustard and cayenne. Blend in milk. Pour egg mixture evenly over bread. Cover dish. Refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

Bake in 325 degree oven, uncovered 45 to 55 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Variation: Follow recipe above, substituting 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese for 1 cup Cheddar cheese. Browned country sausage can also be added.

Serves 6 to 8 guests.